The date is September 30th 1968, Rollout day for the 747. The worlds press converged on the new Boeing plant at Everett, Washington, along with 1200 guests ranging from politicians to buisnessman, and stewardesses from the 26 airlines which had placed orders for the 747. This day was for all who had put in their all to make the 747 a reality. Boeing had bet its financial life on this project, and the outcome was still an uncertainty. At 10:30am sharp, a BMW floatplane, the first aircraft boeing ever built, flew overhead. This was followed in quick succession by the 737, 727 and 707, Boeings current commercial offerings.
Malcom Stamper, VP 747 Division:"26 Months ago as we stood amist a forrest up here at Everett and the descision was made to go forward with the 747 program, the magnitude of the task that we were faced with really looked formidable. The fact that this great plane is rolling out on schedule, in the very fine condition its in, is a tremendious testimonial to thousands of people and hundreds of companies throughout the world."
Finally, the hangar doors slowly opened and the boeing 747, the worlds largest airliner, rolled majesticly out for the first time. After a rather botched christening, the guests were allowed a detailed look at the outside and interior. Unfortunately this 747, RA001, was full of test equipment.
First flight is a few hectic months away, and FAA Certification is even further off, but there is still time for one last promotional photograph.
